It's just one of those shows. You may have seen it before – several times – but can you seriously resist the magic of Oliver?

It has a story to melt the hardest of hearts, yes, even if you know what happens next. It has some of the brightest characters in musicals and of course, those songs.

Longwood Amateur Operatic Society knows the show will pack houses especially if it has a cracking cast.

And that’s just what the society has lined up for a show which will flood the Lawrence Batley Theatre with colour, emotion, smiles and heartbreak.

The show opens on Tuesday October 1 with evening performances through until October 4 at 7.15pm. On October 5, that’s a Saturday, there are shows at 1.30pm and at 6.30pm, a measure of just what a box office draw this is likely to be.

The cast has some of the area’s best known performers in the major roles including Neil Broadbent as Fagin, Martin Stead as Bill Sykes and Holly Comber Moccia as Nancy.

But there is plenty here too for some of the society’s younger members as Oliver teems with great parts for youngsters.

Two young actors share the role of Oliver. Conner Pickles has appeared in Fagin’s gang three times, once at Leeds Grand in a professional production with Neil Morrissey.

But this is the first time he’s been cast as Oliver, a role he shares with Thomas Burley.

Thomas has done a few school plays but this is his first leading part with an amateur society.

James Buckley, cast as the Artful Dodger, is still more of a seasoned young performer.

“I have always loved this show and it was thrilling to get the part,” he said. “I've always loved performing.”

James began dancing when he was three with the Strickland Cook Theatre School in Halifax. Dancing is now his passion and already has an impressive CV both in stage roles and some TV appearances.

Amy Woodhead was just 10 when she was first in Oliver. That was with Lindley Amateur Operatic Society.

“I am delighted to be playing the part of Bet as it’s one of my first principal parts,” she said.

Oliver and the role of Fagin are also close to the heart of Neil Broadbent you suspect, even though he has played some of the best roles in musical theatre.

“My first part was at Salendine Nook High School at l6 years old when I played Fagin,” said Neil.

“From that I was invited to join Huddersfield Light Opera Juniors. Now 25 years later I get the chance to play it again.”

He’s certainly got his hands full with this show as he is co-producing with Jayne Davison. Caroline Kelly is the musical director with Emma Binns as accompanist.

Martin Stead has been part of Longwood AOS since 2005 when he appeared in a memorable production of Jesus Christ Superstar in which he played Peter.

“I’ve been lucky enough to play a number of roles with the society since then,” he said.

“I was attracted to the role of Bill Sykes after getting my first taste of evil playing Jud Fry in Oklahoma last year. However I worry I may be typecasting myself as a baddie for life!”

Holly Comber Moccia has played many leading roles with societies across the area but is thrilled to be cast as Nancy.

“I auditioned for Nancy as I like to challenge my acting skills and her character is quite complicated with challenging scenes,” she said.

“I also love the musical numbers she sings. As Long As He Needs Me is a great favourite to perform.”

Richard Cook needs little introduction as he has graced musical shows in town for years and sung at many charity concerts. He’s playing Mr Bumble which he says is a lovely part for a tenor and is having a lot of fun playing opposite Helen Woodhead as Widow Corney.

“I decided to audition for a part in Oliver as it brings back many happy memories of when I played Nancy with Lindley Amateurs opposite my good friend Andrew Spencer who we sadly lost a few years ago,” said Helen.

It’s a milestone year for Larraine Taylor who is cast as Old Sally. She notches up 40 years in shows this year and couldn’t be happier to mark it with an appearance in such a stunning show as Oliver.